Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have returned with average performances on the field so far in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Along with just two wins in five games, the worrying form of skipper Rishabh Pant in IPL 2026 has also affected the team’s morale. Currently, out of the Indian T20I and ODI setups, Pant has failed to live up to the reputation of being the most expensive player in the IPL auction history. The Lucknow-based franchise shelled out INR 27 crore to secure his services, but the southpaw has underperformed in the last two editions. Let’s take a detailed look at Rishabh Pant recent form and whether he can still help increase LSG chances for playoffs.
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Rishabh Pant’s Performances in IPL 2026
Rishabh Pant kicked off IPL 2026 with a seven-run inning against the Delhi Capitals. After promoting himself as an opener, the 28-year-old was dismissed in an unfortunate run-out at the non-striker’s end. His partner, Mitchell Marsh’s straight drive was deflected by bowler Mukesh Kumar’s hands on to the stumps, and he was caught out of his crease.
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The next game witnessed Pant coming in at No. 3 and playing a match-winning 68*-run knock off 50 balls against the Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, the cricket fraternity criticized him for taking the game deep when it could have ended earlier. The next outing for Rishabh Pant in IPL 2026 came against the Kolkata Knight Riders. In his pursuit of accelerating the tempo, the LSG captain miscued a shot against a short-pitched delivery of Cameron Green and was dismissed for 10.
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Pant started well in his next appearance against the Gujarat Titans with his positive intent. However, an irresponsible shot against Mohammed Siraj resulted in him getting dismissed for 18. Thereafter, the left-hander was retired hurt three balls into the Royal Challengers Bengaluru game. Although, he returned later in the innings, he was dismissed for 1 off 6, ending his struggle at the crease. Overall, Pant has garnered 104 runs in five innings at an average of 26 and a strike rate of 122.35. Certainly, Rishabh Pant recent form has compounded LSG’s worries, as they are also affected by the inconsistency of other international stars.
Why T20 Cricket Has Become a Challenge for Rishabh Pant?
The playing style of Rishabh Pant in IPL 2026 reflects that he has still not sorted his T20 game. As a skipper, his responsibility is to carry the team forward proactively and help the Super Giants set a big target or seal the chase. However, Pant has been dismissed on a few occasions through a rash shot, without thinking about the repurcussions on the game. He frequently employs preemptive and high-risk shots to counter bowlers’ threats early, without setting his eyes properly on the pitch.
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As a result, Pant has been sidelined from the Indian white-ball setup, mainly due to his inconsistency. The likes of Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan have replaced him in the T20I squad and helped the Men in Blue to clinch the 2026 T20 World Cup 2026 trophy. Both players have been calculative with their shots and played according to the team’s demands, unlike the LSG skipper in IPL 2026 and white-ball formats for India. Rishabh Pant recent form doesn’t exude confidence to predict whether he can improve himself to work towards increasing LSG chances for playoffs.
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How LSG Can Qualify for IPL 2026 Playoffs?
Although, LSG have made a mediocre start in IPL 2026, they are expected to push for a spot in the playoffs due to the presence of an impressive batting line-up. One of the experienced openers, Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram needs to play a big knock and carry the bat. The explosive Caribbean batter, Nicholas Pooran is desperate to produce his best form in the season, and his contributions will be vital to help the Super Giants post a winning total. If an out-of-form Rishabh Pant spends some time in the middle to find his form back, he can be devastating for the opposition. The youngster, Mukul Choudhary has already won a game for the side, and is likely to be among key contributors.
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Among the bowlers, Prince Yadav has been excellent with his line-length and pace, and will be crucial to securing consistent breakthroughs. Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami has also done well, but needs to get rid of inconsistent performances. Digvesh Rathi has underperformed badly, and should join the party soon by choking the opposition in the middle overs.
